Description:This handbook is written for individuals, organizations, and communities interested in improving the quality of life of people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWAs)in rural and nonmetropolitan communities. AIDS Housing of Washington’s intent is to guide communities that receive minimal funding for affordable housing and therefore lack sufficient housing resources for PLWAs. We have focused on cities with fewer than 50,000 inhabitants and counties with fewer than 100,000 inhabitants.

Many definitions of “rural” and “nonmetropolitan” exist among the federal agencies that fund housing and AIDS services programs.We’ve included some of those definitions in this sidebar to provide a framework for discussion in subsequent sections. By referencing the definitions, communities and organizations can determine their eligibility for federal funding.(Authors)

Homelessness Resource Center encourages discussion about the future of homelessness services in America. We invite your participation to ensure that a broad range of providers serving those experiencing homelessness are represented.

You will encounter opinions and perspectives from varied sources. These may not reflect the views of Homelessness Resource Center, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, the Institute on Homelessness and Trauma or any other partner organization.

Be Respectful: We welcome your participation, but any comments that contain vulgar or offensive language, personal attacks, are wildly off-topic or otherwise inappropriate will be removed immediately and the offending party risks losing the ability to participate.

If You See Something Inappropriate, Report It: You may report any comment as inappropriate. Reported comments are immediately removed, pending review, so please report responsibly. The Federal Government and the Institute on Homelessness and Trauma have sole discretion in determining what is and what is not appropriate.

Don’t Include Personal Contact Information: To protect yourself and the privacy of others, please do not include phone numbers, e-mail addresses, or other personally identifying information in your comments. Such material will be removed from the site.

Do Not Request Services: This site is for the exchange of ideas and information regarding service delivery to those experiencing homelessness. It is not an appropriate location to request services or make referrals.